Elders of Imiakebu community in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State have rejected alleged plans to collapse the Three Ibies federated clan structure into what they described as an “emirate dynasty.”

Their reaction followed last week’s announcement by the Ogieaga of Three Ibies, Mallam Ali Suleiman, renaming the clan from Three Ibies to Ibvie Clan.

In a statement, the Azamanodu III of Imiakebu, HRH Musa Awoh Ahmadu, faulted the move, saying it was made without due consultation with the communities concerned.

He reaffirmed that Imiakebu remains an autonomous community with its own traditional hierarchy—comprising the village head, chiefs, elders’ council, and youth representatives—and urged Governor Monday Okpebholo to intervene before tensions escalate.

Ahmadu also dismissed the reported appointment of Mallam Braimah Inusa as Chief Imam and one Shadrach as youth leader of Imiakebu, describing both claims as “false and baseless.”

“The title of Ogieaga of the Three Ibies is rotational among Imiakebu, Itsukwi, and Imiegba. Any attempt to alter this arrangement will distort our cultural heritage,” he warned.
“We will not recognise HRH Mallam Ali Suleiman as Ogieaga of Ibvie Clan, a title alien to our customs. This move is a prototype of colonial imposition.”

Responding, Mallam Suleiman said the meeting held in his palace was aimed at restructuring the clan’s administration for better coordination, not altering its leadership rotation.

“Nobody is trying to change the rotational headship,” he clarified. “We are only seeking to improve administrative efficiency among the three communities—Imiegba, Imiakebu, and Itsukwi.”